Life

Justice for Juveniles Peace Walk held Saturday

Approximately 50 area residents turned out for a mile-long Justice for Juveniles Peace Walk held Saturday morning.

The event which was promoted on Facebook was held to "show our children that they are seen, heard, loved, and supported by their community," Daliesha Walker, a Williamsport resident and community organizer said in a press release.

"Every step we take is a reminder that their lives matter and that they are loved, supported, and never alone," Walker said.

"As someone who was born and raised in this community, this is personal to me. I want our children to grow up knowing that there are adults who care, who will show up, and who are willing to stand beside them," Walker said in the release.

"Today wasn't just about walking, it was about starting conversations, building relationships, and reminding everyone that real change begins when a community comes together," she said.

Walker said the large turnout gave her hope for the future.

"My goal is to continue creating opportunities that bring people together, uplift our youth and make our community stronger," she said.

"Peace isn't created by words alone; it begins when ordinary people choose to show up for one another. Today, our community did exactly that," Walker said.

"Seeing our community come together, stand united and show love for the next generation was truly powerful," said Jessie Lopez Sr., father of Jessie Lopez Jr., who was recently seen being stopped by a county narcotics detective in a viral video, according to the release.

"This was never about division -- it was about protecting our kids, supporting one another and reminding them that they matter," Lopez Sr. said, offering his appreciation "to everyone who showed up, shared their voice, and helped make this a beautiful moment for our community."

Rachel Wallace, a candidate for the state's 9th congressional district traveled from Pottsville to attend the walk.

"I came to Williamsport today to listen, and what I heard was a community that is committed to making the city safer," Wallace said in the release.

"Unity, a positive vision, and a willingness by all to solve this problem is how we move forward -- and that's what I saw today," she said.

"I am grateful to live in a community where people like Daliesha Walker stand up to organize a community event in the face of violence," city councilman Jonah Milliken said in the release.

"I met some wonderful people today, including Jessie Lopez Jr. He told me about his plans to join the Navy, and we talked about growing up in Williamsport," Milliken said.

"Our community is stronger when we show up for each other, and it's strong because of people like Jessie and Daliesha," Milliken said.

Other community leaders in attendance included city councilwoman Liz Miele and Williamsport Area School District school board members Nazirah Purnell and Lauren Montgomery, according to the release.

Organizers have discussed hosting future community peace walks in the coming weeks, the release said.